Patricia "Pat" Benesch of Stewartstown, Pennsylvania, entered eternal rest on Saturday, July 18, 2026, at the age of 83.  Over the past several years, Pat suffered with several health challenges.  During that time, she bravely faced each challenge with courage and faith.  However, the Lord called her home, and she died peacefully surrounded by her three children, Lisa, Paul and David.
Pat was born in Baltimore, Maryland on February 15, 1943, to parents, John and Virgina Jelen.  The oldest of three, Pat was raised in a traditional Catholic home who valued their faith, education and family.  Her work ethic and desire to take care of her family led her to a career as an office administrator of several law firms.  After retirement, she continued to be committed to her family and dedicated her time to her daughter's childcare business serving as an office administrator. After Pat ended her work at the daycare, she cared for her beloved husband and devoted all her free time to her family.
Pat was preceded in death by her beloved parents and husband, Joseph Benesch, along with her grandsons Max Rufalo and Joshua Bauer.  She is survived by her sister, Dolores Jelen, brother Robert Jelen; her children, Lisa Rufalo and husband Scott Reese, Paul Benesch and wife Maureen and David Benesch and wife Marybeth; as well as many grandchildren: David Benesch, Jr. and wife Robin, Grace Rufalo, Justin Reese, Rachel Johnston and husband Cameron, Ryan Benesch and wife Megan, Cole and Kate Benesch; and three great grandchildren: Fynn and Austin Benesch along with newborn, Jack Johnston.
A viewing for Pat will be held on Thursday, July 23, 2026 between 2-4 pm and 6-8 pm at Ruck-Towson Funeral Home, Inc. 1050 York Road, Towson, MD 21204.  A Mass honoring Pat will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026 at 11 am at St. John The Baptist Catholic Church, 315 N. Constitution Avenue, New Freedom, PA.  Pat's burial will immediately follow the Mass at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations in Pat's name to the "ASPCA", Your Gift Could Save a Life | ASPCA.  Pat adored all her pets throughout the years but has a very special love and connection to her adored pup, Coco.
Pat left an impact on every person she met.  Her warm and kind personality, contagious smile, honest opinions and infectious laugh will be deeply missed by all of us who loved her dearly.